Philippines’ Marcos confident on economic cooperation with China, despite rows

Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. expressed optimism on Friday about maintaining close economic cooperation with China, despite ongoing disputes in the South China Sea. Speaking at an event with foreign journalists in Manila, Marcos said the two countries could collaborate on joint energy exploration, including in the Reed Bank, located within the Philippines' exclusive economic zone.

The president emphasized that China remains one of the Philippines' biggest investors and that there had been numerous instances of cooperation between the two nations, particularly in energy supplies during recent global conflicts. Marcos clarified that there is no policy distance between the Philippines and China, stating that they are continuing to find many instances of cooperation despite disputes.

The two countries have a history of strained ties, exacerbated by confrontations in the South China Sea, including a clash at Second Thomas Shoal in July and a water-cannon incident near Scarborough Shoal. Additionally, Beijing imposed sanctions on the Philippine defense minister. Despite these tensions, Marcos noted that there are ongoing discussions on joint exploration, and all parties involved seem to desire a successful outcome.

Marcos underscored that the Philippines has not ceded its rights to the Reed Bank or any other territories and can continue resupply missions in the South China Sea without needing Beijing's permission, reinforcing Manila's position remains intact.